E-bike sales surge amid rising fuel prices

Affordable, low-maintenance bikes attract govt employees, delivery riders and students

RAWALPINDI:

Following the continued rise in petroleum prices, the sale and demand for electric and battery-powered motorcycles have increased significantly in the open market.

Government employees, takeaway delivery workers and ride-hailing riders have increasingly begun using electric bikes as a cost-effective alternative.

Electric bikes and battery scooters are now commonly seen across the city's roads, being ridden by female students, young people and delivery riders in large numbers. Motorcycle dealers have also started offering electric scooters and bikes both on cash payment and instalment plans.

The trend of using electric scooters is particularly growing among female students, working women and other female commuters.

In Pakistan, the prices of electric bikes (e-bikes) vary depending on the brand, battery capacity and features. They are generally available from around Rs170,000 to over Rs600,000.

Popular brands include Jolta, Pakzon, United and Vlektra. These bikes help reduce fuel consumption and have lower maintenance costs as they do not require petrol or engine oil.

Each model offers a different range. A fully charged electric scooter can travel up to around 100 kilometres, while a single battery typically provides a range of around 80 kilometres. Another advantage is that these vehicles operate almost silently.

Dealers say electric scooters are being offered with full warranty and can be purchased on instalments with an advance payment of Rs10,000 to Rs15,000. Monthly instalments usually range between Rs5,000 and Rs10,000, depending on the initial payment, while most dealers offer repayment plans for up to one year.

Users say e-bikes significantly reduce fuel expenses. Haris Ali, an electric bike user, said dealers claim that one battery can run 80 to 100 kilometres, while a full electric charge can exceed 100 kilometres, but in reality the effective range is closer to 50 kilometres before the bike begins to lose power. However, he added that because the bikes do not run on petrol or diesel, owners save money on engine tuning and maintenance.

Working woman Ayesha Sultana said she purchased a low-capacity scooter on instalments and has saved substantially on petrol costs. Dealers also report that many motorcycle riders have sold their petrol-powered bikes and switched to electric models.